Fellow Workers in the Kingdom – Colossians 4:10-11 Bible Study
Scripture: Colossians 4:10-11 (ESV)
"Aristarchus my fellow prisoner greets you, and Mark the cousin of Barnabas (concerning whom you have received instructions—if he comes to you, welcome him),
and Jesus who is called Justus. These are the only men of the circumcision among my fellow workers for the kingdom of God, and they have been a comfort to me."
Laying the Foundation: The Value of Christian Community
As Paul wraps up his letter, he highlights key people in his ministry. These names might not be as well known as Paul or Peter, but their faithfulness and partnership in the gospel were essential.
Paul specifically mentions three Jewish believers: Aristarchus, Mark, and Justus, who stood by him during his imprisonment. This passage reminds us that ministry is never meant to be done alone. God calls us to serve and walk together.
Let’s break this passage down.
1. Aristarchus: A Faithful Companion in Suffering (v.10a)
"Aristarchus my fellow prisoner greets you..."
"Aristarchus" – He was a loyal companion of Paul and is mentioned multiple times in Scripture (Acts 19:29, 20:4, 27:2, Philemon 1:24).
"My fellow prisoner" (συναιχμάλωτος, synaichmalōtos) – This means "prisoner of war." Aristarchus was not just a friend. He suffered alongside Paul for the gospel.
He was with Paul during the riot in Ephesus (Acts 19:29) and even traveled with him on his dangerous journey to Rome (Acts 27:2).
Aristarchus shows us what it means to be a faithful companion in ministry, even when it involves suffering.
Reflection:
Are you willing to stand by others in hard times, even when it costs you?
Do you surround yourself with faithful, Christ-centered friends who encourage you?
2. Mark: A Story of Redemption (v.10b)
"Mark the cousin of Barnabas (concerning whom you have received instructions—if he comes to you, welcome him)"
"Mark" – Also known as John Mark, the writer of the Gospel of Mark.
"Cousin of Barnabas" – Barnabas was known as an encourager (Acts 4:36), and he mentored Mark.
Mark's past failure – Mark had abandoned Paul and Barnabas on a missionary journey (Acts 13:13). Because of this, Paul refused to take him on another journey, leading to a sharp disagreement with Barnabas (Acts 15:36-39).
Mark's restoration – Despite this, Mark later proved himself faithful. Paul later calls him "useful for ministry" (2 Timothy 4:11) and now encourages the Colossians to welcome him.
Mark’s story is one of second chances. He had failed before, but through the grace of God, he was restored and became a vital part of ministry.
Reflection:
Have you ever felt disqualified because of past mistakes?
How can you extend grace to someone who has failed in the past and help them grow?
3. Justus: A Quiet Yet Faithful Worker (v.11a)
"And Jesus who is called Justus..."
"Jesus (called Justus)" – A Jewish believer who faithfully served with Paul.
Little is known about Justus—this is his only mention in Scripture, but his faithfulness mattered.
"These are the only men of the circumcision among my fellow workers for the kingdom of God" – Most Jews rejected the gospel, so these three were part of a small but faithful group of Jewish believers.
Justus represents those who serve faithfully in the background. He may not have been well-known, but Paul valued his partnership.
Reflection:
Are you willing to serve even if no one sees or recognizes you?
Do you value those who serve quietly and faithfully in ministry?
4. The Comfort of Gospel Friendships (v.11b)
"And they have been a comfort to me."
Even Paul needed encouragement. Ministry can be lonely, and having faithful friends brought him comfort.
Gospel partnerships matter. No one can serve effectively alone.
Encouragement in the faith is vital. We all need people who remind us of God’s truth and stand with us.
Reflection:
Are you surrounding yourself with godly, encouraging friendships?
Who can you reach out to this week to offer encouragement?
Final Thoughts: Faithfulness in Every Role
Paul’s list of co-laborers reminds us that every role in God’s kingdom matters.
🔥 Aristarchus shows us the power of loyalty in suffering.
💔 Mark reminds us that past failure does not define our future.
🌱 Justus teaches us that even those who serve quietly are essential.
Ask yourself:
✔️ Am I willing to be faithful in whatever role God has called me to?
✔️ Do I extend grace to those who have failed but desire restoration?
✔️ How can I be a comfort and encouragement to others in the faith?
Tomorrow, we’ll continue looking at Paul’s final greetings and the community of believers who partnered with him in spreading the gospel.
